Sensors measure off-highway vehicle dynamics

Triaxial piezoelectric force sensors, from PCB Piezotronics Inc., Depew, New York, simultaneously measure dynamic and quasi-static forces in three orthogonal axes. They are used to study large, off-highway vehicle chassis dynamics at interfaces between hydraulic cylinders, motors, and rotary actuators, shock absorbers, struts, or other chassis components, such as those typically found on loaders, graders, loader backhoes, tractors, etc.

The sensors supplement vibration measurements in vehicle testing by providing the input force that drives the dynamic response — for example, from the motor mounts or hydraulic actuator to the rest of the vehicle. Testing includes modal analysis, durability and fatigue life, and ride quality studies.

Series 260A sensors feature full-scale measuring ranges from 500 to 4000 lb (2.2 kN to 18 kN) in X and Y axes, and from 1000 to 10,000 lb (4.5 kN to 45 kN) in the Z axis. Single-axis models are also available.